Directive 2010/63/EU on the protection of animals used for scientific purposes was adopted on 22 September 2010.

The Directive is based on the principle of the 3Rs, to replace, reduce and refine the use of animals for scientific purposes.

Directive 2010/63/EU lays down minimum standards for housing and care, regulates the use of animals through a systematic project evaluation requiring assessment of pain, suffering distress and lasting harm caused to the animals.

The development, validation and implementation of alternative methods is promoted through measures such as establishment of a European Union reference laboratory for the validation of alternative methods supported by laboratories within Member States and requiring Member States to promote alternative methods at national level.